May 02, 2023
TO: FDS Inspectors and Plan Checkers
FROM: Hani
G. Malki, Senior Fire Protection Engineer Fire Development Services Section
SUBJECT: Energy Storage System (ESS) on R3 occupancy building
Effective May 10, 2023, to facilitate the installation of Energy Storage Systems (ESS) on R3 occupancy buildings, Fire Development Services has provided revised guidelines for installers. These guidelines shall supersede all previously issued guidelines. When ESS are installed in accordance with ALL of the following guidelines, an electrical application from LADBS would not need additional Fire Department review.
1. ESS battery unit(s) are for exterior installation(s)
2. Surfaces of ESS unit(s) to be greater than 3’ from any openings (e.g., windows, doors, attic vents, dryer vents, kitchen exhaust, under floor openings, etc.).
● Dryer vents or kitchen exhausts within 3’ of these batteries shall be metal with a functional damper
● Underfloor ventilations within 3' of these batteries are to have metal finned louver screens.
● Underfloor access panels within 3' of these batteries shall have a noncombustible finish (e.g. 26-gauge sheet metal)
3. Surfaces of ESS unit(s) to be not less than 3’ from the main electrical panel. Provide a minimum 5’ clear space on each side of the ESS to any obstructions that extends 18” beyond the wall surface (rain barrels, tool shed, a/c units, hot water tanks, etc…) to ensure hose stream access.
4. ESS disconnect to be no closer than 3’ from ESS. Proper signage(s) shall read “ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM AC DISCONNECT”.
5. Access pathway(s): one 3’ wide minimum unobstructed pathway (e.g., clearance from air conditioning units, parked cars, rain barrels, trees, heavy vegetation) to access the ESS unit(s) or two 30” unobstructed pathways are provided to access the ESS unit(s) from opposite directions.
